Project Overview
About the Position
The ORCRIST project at Wageningen develops faster, accurate three-dimensional radiation calculations for clouds and wildfire plumes. The PhD links atmospheric physics, GPU computing and machine learning.
Research Position Overview
Develop Monte Carlo ray-tracing methods for thermal radiation and work with MicroHH simulations. Benchmark approaches relevant to solar forecasting, tropical climate and wildfire plumes, collaborating with a Leiden doctoral researcher on machine-learning denoising.
Research Areas
- Atmospheric radiation
- GPU simulation
- Wildfire plumes
- Ray tracing
Funding and Duration
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | PhD researcher |
| Salary | €3,204–€4,051 gross per month for a 38-hour working week, increasing with doctoral year. |
| Duration | Four years, full-time (38 hours per week): initial 18-month contract, extended subject to satisfactory progress. |
| Programme / host support | NWO Open Technology Programme ORCRIST; Meteorology and Air Quality group. |
| Benefits | 8.3% year-end bonus and pension arrangements; other benefits follow the university employment conditions. |
Eligibility and Requirements
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicant eligibility | Worldwide applicants may be considered subject to academic eligibility, recruitment checks and the stated appointment conditions. |
| Academic preparation | MSc in meteorology, physics, applied mathematics, computer science or a related field. |
| Research skills | Programming in C++ and Python; experience with CUDA, high-performance computing or machine learning is advantageous. |
| Language | English at C1 level. |
Application dates
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruitment status | Open when verified against the official source |
| Deadline | 1 November 2026 inclusive; sidebar: apply before 2 November. |
| Start date | Not specified in the vacancy. |
| Location | Wageningen, Netherlands |
Contact
Questions about this position, eligibility or the application process should be raised through the contact channel given on the official announcement page (see the Official Link section above). Always quote the position reference in your message so the admissions or HR team can route your enquiry quickly.
Important Notes
- Application deadline: 1 November 2026 - late or incomplete applications are normally not considered.
- Listing details were recorded from the official source at the time of publication; always confirm the latest requirements on the official page before applying.
- Prepare the documents listed in the eligibility and application sections before starting the online form - transcripts, CV and references take the longest to collect.
How to Apply
- CV: maximum two pages.
- Motivation letter: maximum one page, within the combined three-page limit.
- Complete the supplementary form linked in the official notice.
Submit through the application system linked from the official vacancy. Follow its current document and translation instructions.
Selection and Contact
Submit by 1 November 2026 inclusive; the sidebar describes this as applying before 2 November.
Research contact: Chiel van Heerwaarden and Menno Veerman; Leiden collaborator Ben van Werkhoven.
About Wageningen University & Research
Wageningen University & Research works across food, agriculture, environment and society. The vacancy identifies the specific chair group and supervisory team responsible for this project.
Official Link
Official vacancy reviewed on 15 October 2026. The employer’s current notice governs application requirements and employment terms.
Read the official vacancy and application instructions
Application guides
- How to Email a PhD Supervisor: 7 Templates and Practical Tips
- How to Read a PhD Job Advert: Funding, Eligibility and Application Steps
English language requirements
No IELTS or TOEFL certificate is requested for this employed Dutch position; English is assessed through the application documents and an interview in English.
Frequently asked questions
Drawn from this listing's own record. Always confirm the details on the official source before applying.
What is the deadline for PhD in 3D Radiation in Clouds and Wildfire Plumes Using GPUs and Machine Learning at Wageningen, Netherlands?
The application deadline is 1 November 2026. Applications received after that date are not considered, so treat it as a hard cut-off and leave time for references and transcripts. Closing time not specified — confirm with the provider before you leave it until the last day: the source gives neither a closing time nor a time zone.
Is PhD in 3D Radiation in Clouds and Wildfire Plumes Using GPUs and Machine Learning at Wageningen, Netherlands fully funded?
This is a fully funded award: tuition is covered and a living stipend is provided for the duration of the programme. €3,204/month.
Who is eligible to apply for PhD in 3D Radiation in Clouds and Wildfire Plumes Using GPUs and Machine Learning at Wageningen, Netherlands?
This opportunity is open to applicants worldwide. Host-country status is not a requirement, although you must still satisfy the visa rules for Netherlands. Applications are assessed by Wageningen University & Research.
How do I apply for PhD in 3D Radiation in Clouds and Wildfire Plumes Using GPUs and Machine Learning at Wageningen, Netherlands?
Applications for PhD in 3D Radiation in Clouds and Wildfire Plumes Using GPUs and Machine Learning at Wageningen, Netherlands are submitted directly to Wageningen University & Research through the provider's own application portal — use the Apply button on this page to open it. NextApply does not process applications or charge a fee.
Is an English proficiency test required for PhD in 3D Radiation in Clouds and Wildfire Plumes Using GPUs and Machine Learning at Wageningen, Netherlands?
The source does not state whether an English proficiency test is required for this listing — confirm the requirement (if any) with the provider before applying.
What study level does PhD in 3D Radiation in Clouds and Wildfire Plumes Using GPUs and Machine Learning at Wageningen, Netherlands offer?
This listing is offered at PhD level. That describes the qualification on offer, not a credential you must already hold — check the provider's stated entry requirements before applying.
Hosted by
Wageningen University & Research
Wageningen University & Research is a Dutch institution focused on life sciences, agriculture, food and the environment. It combines university education with research addressing sustainable food systems and living environments. Its programmes and projects connect biological, environmental and social perspectives, supporting collaboration with academic institutions, industry and public organisations worldwide.
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